WordNet-Online
Free dictionary and thesaurus of English. Definitions, synonyms, antonyms and more...
Hint: double-click any word to get it searched!

	Enter your search terms Submit search form
	Web www.wordnet-online.com

Definitions from WordNet

Definitions from the Web

Phosphatase

Definition:

A phosphatase is an enzyme that catalyzes the removal of a phosphate group from a molecule, thus regulating various cellular processes.

Senses:

Sense 1:

Noun: A type of enzyme responsible for the hydrolysis of a phosphate group from a molecule.

Example Sentence: The phosphatase is essential for the dephosphorylation of proteins, allowing them to be active.

Related Products: Phosphatase Enzyme

Sense 2:

Noun: A protein or compound that inhibits or regulates the action of a phosphatase enzyme.

Example Sentence: The researchers discovered a potent phosphatase inhibitor that shows promise in treating certain diseases.

Related Products: Phosphatase Inhibitor

Sense 3:

Noun: A specific variant of a phosphatase enzyme found in particular tissues or organisms.

Example Sentence: The liver-specific phosphatase is involved in the metabolism of certain drugs within the liver.

Related Products: Liver-Specific Phosphatase

Usage:

Usage 1:

Noun: Scientists often study phosphatases to gain insights into cellular signaling pathways.

Example Sentence: The article provides a comprehensive review of the role of phosphatases in regulating cell cycle progression.

Usage 2:

Verb: Cells employ phosphatases to remove phosphate groups and restore molecules to their inactive forms.

Example Sentence: The kinase activity was inhibited, but treatment with the phosphatase restored the protein's function.

Usage 3:

Adjective: The localized phosphatase activity in the brain was significantly higher compared to other organs.

Example Sentence: The presence of brain-specific phosphatase activity indicates its crucial role in neurological functions.